CAROL ANN BENANTI: Dominick Cannizzaro turns 100 in grand style

STATEN ISLAND — Appearing far younger than his years, Dominick Cannizzaro marked his whopping 100th birthday in grand style at the Historic Old Bermuda Inn, Rossville, Sept. 28 — a festive event attended by family, extended family members and friends.

Born in Reggio di Calabria, Italy, on Sept. 26, 1913, Dominick and his family ventured to America on Sept. 1, 1921 when the "birthday boy" was nearly 8 years of age. Both he and his family settled in upstate Amsterdam, N.Y.

In 1938, he married the late Maria Piccolo, who made her home on Madison Street in Manhattan. The couple eventually became the parents of Caroline Avallone of Eltingville, Stella Vicidomine of Great Kills and Frank Cannizzaro of Brooklyn.

Dominick is the grand-dad of six grandchildren and great-grandfather to 13.

Perhaps the secret to Dominick’s longevity is his positive attitude, being grateful for life and the fact that he thanks God every day for his good fortune.